Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012

SMYRNA, Ga. (AP) -- A promotion urging Georgians to vote and offering the chance to win a gun has created a barrage of controversy in Atlanta's suburbs.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Adventure Outdoors owner Jay Wallace defends the raffle.

Democratic State Sen. Vincent Fort of Atlanta filed a complaint Tuesday with the Secretary of State's office. Fort says the promotion violates state law prohibiting anyone from offering money or gifts in exchange for voting or registering to vote.

Eight billboards in metro Atlanta advise people to bring in their Georgia voter sticker for a chance to win a Glock handgun or Browning rifle.

Wallace says the raffle at his store in Smyrna is open to all customers -- not just voters. He says the promotion is getting people involved in the political process.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)